After more than 20 years of reconciliation efforts with the Province of B.C. the Haida Nation celebrated formal recognition of their Indigenous title throughout all of Haida Gwaii July 5.
The Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement celebration took place at the Kwiiyaans Community Hall in Gaw Tlageé (Old Massett). A wide variety of Haida people and tourists commemorated the event.
Jennifer Rice, MLA for the North Coast and Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation also joined.
“B.C. didn't give the Haida their land back. We can't give back something that has always inherently been theirs," Rice said. "We can, however, acknowledge that B.C. and Canada have exploited Haida lands and people. It's time for us to get out the way.”
On April 6, Haida citizens voted to approve the agreement. The Council of the Haida Nation reported 500 votes were cast and attendance at the Special House of Assembly was a record high. Ninety-five per cent of the votes were in favour.
The Haida Nation Recognition Amendment Act, the provincial law that recognizes Haida title, was passed in April and received royal assent in May.
This progress entitles the Haida Nation to all rights and titles to their land. The Haida people will have legal say in how their lands are managed and protected. It is a much-anticipated step toward respect for Indigenous rights.
This includes decisions about resource development, conservation efforts, and cultural heritage preservation. It acknowledges historical injustices and strengthens the Haida position in negotiations and partnerships concerning land and resource management.
However, the Act will not impact anyone’s private property, or local government jurisdiction, bylaws and local government lands in Haida Gwaii. Provincial laws will continue to apply.
Provincial leases, permits and other approvals to use areas of Crown land also remain in effect. Public infrastructure such as the transportation system, health care, schools, fire and emergency services will also not be affected.
